Evidence-Based Policy Making in the Social Sciences: Methods That Matter

Description

Drawing on the insights of some of the world's leading authorities in public policy analysis, this important book offers a distinct and critical showcase of emerging forms of discovery for policy-making. Chapter by chapter this expert group of social scientists showcase their chosen method or approach, showing the context, the method's key features and how it can be applied in practice, including the scope and limitations of its application and value to policy makers. Arguing that it is not just econometric analysis, cost benefit or surveys that can do policy work, the contributors demonstrate a range of other methods that can provide evidenced-based policy insights and how they can help facilitate progressive policy outcomes. The book will be ideal for upper level undergraduate students as well as Public Policy post-graduates, and can be used as the basis of an intensive learning experience for policy makers.

Professor Gerry Stoker is Professor of Governance within Social Sciences: Politics & International Relations at the University of Southampton. Mark Evans is the Director and Professor of Governance at the Institute for Governance and Policy Analysis at the University of Canberra, Australia. He has authored, co-authored or edited 25 books in the fields of governance and policy analysis and has been the editor of the international journal Policy Studies since 2005.

"This is an important book. University-based researchers, think tank staff, and policy makers, should all read it and follow its suggestions." Citizen's Income Trust "This book is recommended to students looking to broaden their understanding of methods for providing meaningful evidence for policy creation." LSE Review of Books "This valuable book highlights the potential contribution of a wide range of social science research methods to policy making, and outlines suggestions for improving the research input into the policy process." Hugh Bochel, University of Lincoln "The book provides an excellent overview of a diverse but select set of qualitative, quantitative and creative methods relevant to developing robust evidence to inform policymaking." - Social Research Association "An accessible and informative collection, providing invaluable practical guidance, which highlights the central importance of social science to public policy." Tony Manzi, University of Westminster